Ascoughs – the birthday treat

I wouldn't normally go out to eat to celebrate a birthday – in fact the last “birthday treat” was an unmitigated disaster. Thank you Ascoughs for restoring my faith – but don't take my word for it.

I was impressed to receive a very polite message from Ascoughs on the day, asking me to confirm my booking – attention to detail.

Some useful information – the current lunch and dinner menus are available from 9^th January to 3^rd February so another change of menu is due. You can take a sneaky peak at the menus ahead of the game on line and ponder your ultimate choice – another smart move. If you tend to be a tad indecisive and then regret it later this is the perfect solution.

What did catch my eye was “Over Night Braised Hoggett, Champ Potato Cake, Confit Shallot, Red Currant Jellies and Pan Jus”.

For those who aren't sure what hoggett is, let me explain. Lamb is considered to be up to a year old. Hoggett comes next between 1 and 2 years old, mutton follows – over two years old. If you are a fan of lamb you might be interested to know that hoggett is considered to be the most flavoursome of the options.

Lets cut to the chase and borrow a well known phrase - “... here are some of the choices and results from the Stanwick Jury”.

Here's the hoggett :

... “excellent – very generous portion, melt in the mouth”

Next up for the vegetarians :

Winter Vegetable En Croute, Spinach, Spring Onion Mash, Baked Onion, Sauce Roti

… “delicious - it's rare for me to finish a plate of food but I gave it my best shot!”

Finally, the dessert choice :

Frangipane Slice, Cherry Gel, Glazed Baby Pears, Salted Caramel Almonds, Cherry Sorbet

… “all my favourite flavours on one plate – it did not disappoint”

There are two strokes of genius here – the cost is beyond reasonable and the menus are changed each month so you don't get bored. Out for lunch or dinner once a month at these prices – what's not to like.

Can't wait for my next treat!